Volunteer: Feeding America Food Banks

For over 40 years, Feeding America has been supporting Americans across the country who are struggling with food security by providing nourishing and safe food to those in need. Feeding America has Food Banks across the United States that fight against hunger through food pantries and meal programs. To volunteer with Feeding America, click the “Volunteer” button. Once…

ByJadenMay 13, 20241Comment

Housing + Food Security Learn

Soup Kitchen + Food Pantries

Soup Kitchens A soup kitchen is a center where the hungry and less fortunate can come to eat free meals. They are usually located in lower-income neighborhoods and staffed with volunteers. Food options range from bread and a beverage to fully cooked and nutritional meals. Most soup kitchens also provide necessities like clothes and hygiene…

ByJadenApril 28, 20240Comments

Housing + Food Security Learn

What is Gentrification?

Have you ever noticed how much of the cost of living in heavily populated areas is significantly higher than in places with a lower population? Have you observed the specific demographic in these areas, the real estate developments, and the price increase of ordinarily affordable items? All of these are direct effects of gentrification. The…

ByJadenApril 28, 20241Comment

Housing + Food Security Learn

Food Stamps and a Challenging Narrative

Food stamps, defined by the U.S government, is a federal nutrition program that aids in helping less fortunate individuals and families purchase food (usa.gov). What was initially known as the United States Food Stamps program is now known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. The U.S government states that “SNAP benefits can help…

ByJadenApril 28, 20240Comments

Housing + Food Security Learn

GMOs and False Food Labels

After watching the film, “ Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives” directed by Jeffrey M. Smith, I was genuinely shocked by the information that was presented. I’ve learned about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) before but never really dove into the extent of its effects. Genetically modified organisms or crops are living things that have…

ByJadenApril 28, 20240Comments

Housing + Food Security Learn

Rent Control

Working and canvassing for current New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie three summers ago opened my eyes to the very real problem of non- rent stabilized homes in New York City. As I knocked on the doors of Crown Heights NYCHA building residents, I had the opportunity to speak with them and understand the ongoing…

ByJadenApril 28, 20240Comments

Housing + Food Security Learn

How Food Insecurity Impacts Nutrition

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.” Food insecurity is a direct result of inadequate income and resources in one’s community. Access to healthy food, socio-economic status, and food waste are three factors that contribute to food insecurity. In food…

ByJadenApril 28, 20240Comments

Connect

Jaden Petrus (Spark Co-Host, Housing + Food Security Action Leader)

Jaden Petrus is a Junior nursing major, sociology minor attending Howard University. Since the age of 12, Jaden’s affinity towards the medical field has expanded and strengthened. Particularly, the medical disparities between minorities and non-minorities that present themselves in health care environments have been a strong influence on her pursuit of becoming a nurse practitioner.…

ByJadenApril 21, 20240Comments